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Side Effects Of Primperan

Primperan is a brand name for the medication metoclopramide, used to treat heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease on a short-term basis, and for patients with gastroparesis. Primperan is available in numerous countries, but not in the U.S., where metoclopramide is sold under the brands Maxolon, Octamide and Reglan and in generic form. Many side effects are possible; the serious effects tend to result from taking too much medication for a long time.

  1. Most Common Effects

    • The most common side effects associated with Primperan include anxiety, depression, drowsiness, fatigue, insomnia, restlessness and sedation.

    Other Side Effects

    • Many other side effects also can occur, although rarely. They include breast tenderness and swelling, changes in menstruation, constipation, dry mouth, erectile dysfunction, increased frequency of urination, insomnia, loss of sexual interest, nausea and skin rash.

    High Doses

    • High doses of Primperan can cause aching or unusual skin sensations in the lower legs, diarrhea, irritability, nervousness, and panic. Signs of overdose include these symptoms as well as confusion and seizures.

    Neurological Side Effects

    • Neurological side effects increase with higher doses and longer treatment time frames. The patient may experience symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, with involuntary muscle movements and facial grimaces. This side effect is unlikely and usually disappears if the drug is discontinued.

    Black Box Warning

    • In 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration mandated a black box warning addressing the risk of tardive dyskinesia with high-dose or long-term use of metoclopramide. Tardive dyskinesia causes involuntary and repetitive movements, and the condition is permanent.

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